The renowned clothing brand, Being Human, has just unveiled its 100th store in the lively Pink City of Jaipur, Rajasthan. This milestone in the brand’s history was celebrated with the presence of notable personalities including Sohail Khan, Alvira Khan Agnihotri (Managing Director of Being Human Clothing), Beena Kak, Awez Darbar, Sanjeev Rao (CEO of Being Human Clothing), Vivek Sandhwar (COO of Being Human Clothing), and the brand’s leadership team.
Situated in Jaipur’s prime shopping district, the flagship store spans over 2100 square feet, offering easy accessibility and housing an impressive collection of Being Human clothing and accessories.
“It’s really heartwarming how welcoming the locals have been. Their support and passion attest to Jaipur’s suitability as a home for Being Human. Bollywood actor Sohail Khan said, “As we begin this project in Jaipur, it’s not just about opening a store; it’s about reaching out with friendship and solidarity to the wonderful people of this city.”
“We’re excited at Being Human to bring our iconic brand within reach of the Jaipur community. The inauguration of our 100th store in this historic city highlights our dedication to broadening our presence throughout India, providing our discerning customers with access to our latest collections in an enchanting retail setting,” said Sanjeev Rao, CEO of Being Human.
With the inauguration of its flagship store in Jaipur, Being Human further extends its footprint across India. The company is set to unveil several more stores across Rajasthan in the coming months.
Krispy Kreme Inc. has entered into an agreement with restaurant group ISH Kreme to introduce the beloved sweet treats to Germany.
Krispy Kreme plans to make its iconic, freshly baked doughnuts available to German consumers via a network of Krispy Kreme shops, beginning in Berlin.
“We’re thrilled about our expansion into Germany, a priority market for us, offering significant growth potential with over 3,000 points of access,” stated Raphael Duvivier, Chief Development Officer of Krispy Kreme. “Furthermore, we’re delighted to collaborate with ISH leader Ilkem Sahin and the highly experienced ISH team to drive our growth in this market,” he added.
Krispy Kreme’s versatile fresh business model, powered by a capital-efficient hub-and-spoke system, facilitates extensive growth both in the US and international markets. Every Krispy Kreme doughnut is freshly made daily, meticulously hand-crafted, and hand-decorated, ensuring the signature melt-in-your-mouth flavor that epitomizes the brand.
This announcement follows the December 2023 launch of Krispy Kreme in Paris. The company is set to commence operations in Germany in early 2025. ISH oversees the management of 300 KFC and Pizza Hut outlets throughout Germany.
Krispy Kreme operates in over 35 countries, utilizing its distinctive network of fresh doughnut shops, collaborations with top retailers, and a swiftly expanding e-commerce and delivery segment, boasting over 14,000 fresh access points.
Heineken, the brewing giant, is injecting £39 million into its UK pub network, aiming to revitalize 62 once-shuttered venues.
This endeavor, a facet of Heineken’s Star Pubs and Bars division overseeing 2,400 sites throughout the UK, anticipates creating over 1,000 fresh employment opportunities.
The funding will enable refurbishments at over 600 pubs nationwide, accounting for roughly a quarter of the Star chain, and will target 94 additional outlets, predominantly in suburban locales, within the current year.
The investment is geared towards adjusting to the evolving work patterns, as more individuals opt for remote work and outdoor spaces gain heightened popularity in the aftermath of the pandemic.
The world’s second-largest brewer plans to enlarge kitchen facilities and improve pub gardens as part of its expansion efforts.
The company’s strategy aims to return the number of operational outlets to pre-pandemic levels, mirroring the shift in customer commuting habits towards city centers.
Heineken’s renovation plans will convert specific pubs into high-quality local establishments.
The renovations will incorporate “subtle zoning” to cater to various customer activities, including sports viewing and dining.
Lawson Mountstevens, the managing director of Star Pubs, remarked, “Customers seek maximum value from their local outings.”
“They desire excellent ambiance, food, and beverages, along with activities that provide added incentive for outings, like sports screenings and entertainment,” noted Lawson Mountstevens.
This recent investment is part of a larger £200 million commitment by Heineken to its UK pubs since 2019.
In a recent development, Punch Pubs, a UK-based pub and bar operator, broadened its portfolio by acquiring 24 Wear Inns pubs from Milton Three. These include establishments like the Black Bull in Morpeth, the Cross Keys in Washington, and the New Inn in Wetherby.
Maya Pistola Agavepura, a pioneering name in Asia’s realm of premium, aged 100% Agave spirit, has unveiled its much-awaited Añejo and Extra Añejo variants in Mumbai.
With meticulous precision and fervent dedication, Maya Pistola Agavepura’s Añejo and Extra Añejo variants epitomize the brand’s dedication to excellence and genuine craftsmanship. Every iteration undergoes meticulous aging, resulting in luxurious flavors and intricate nuances that connoisseurs will truly savor.
The Añejo (An-ye-ho), translating to ‘vintage’ in Spanish, stands as a revered embodiment. This distinguished offering captivates with its velvety and intricately layered persona. Exhibiting a rich golden-brown tint, Maya Pistola Añejo boasts an aroma reminiscent of oak, cocoa, and dried figs, gently underscored by a hint of smokiness.
The Extra Añejo (Extra An-ye-ho) edition stands as the pinnacle of luxury within the Maya Pistola Agavepura lineup, now gracing the market. Crafted with utmost care, this extraordinary elixir has matured gracefully for more than 36 months. Beginning its journey in Virgin American White Oak barrels to extract the essence of vanilla and caramel, it then undergoes a finishing touch in Ex-Maker’s Mark barrels, imparting a delightful infusion of butterscotch and subtle dry spice notes.
“We are thrilled to introduce our Extra Añejo and Añejo variants to our premium customer base. These releases are the pinnacle of our attention to detail and capture the complexity and depth that can only be achieved using conventional ageing techniques. Director & Founder of Maya Pistola Agavepura Rakshay Dhariwal said, “We’re sure that both seasoned enthusiasts as well as newcomers will recognise and savour the unmatched quality and flavour complexity of these remarkable spirits.”
Maya Pistola Agavepura’s latest premium offerings are now accessible at select retail outlets in Maharashtra, priced at INR 7,850 for the Añejo (700 ml) and Rs 17,500 for the Extra Añejo (700 ml). Additionally, smaller sizes are available for INR 2,495 (180 ml) for the Añejo and INR 4,500 (180 ml) for the Extra Añejo. These variants will also be featured at prominent F&B venues across Mumbai.
“Both the Añejo and Extra Añejo editions embody richness, boldness, and complexity, each with its distinct traits and subtleties. The Añejo evokes the essence of a festive Christmas cake, brimming with the flavors of dried fruits, nuts, and spices, cherished for the joy it brings to momentous occasions. Meanwhile, the Extra Añejo conjures the cozy ambiance of loved ones gathering around a fireplace. These opulent spirits present a captivating alternative for India’s discerning whisky enthusiasts,” remarked Chief Operating Officer Kimberly Pereira.
Marico, a leading player in the FMCG sector, has reported a 5% year-on-year (YoY) jump in its March quarter consolidated net profit at INR 320 crore. The profit stood at INR 305 crore in the corresponding period of the previous financial year.
Sequentially, there was a 17% decline compared to the INR 386 crore posted by the company in Q3FY24.
The revenue from operations saw a modest increase of 1.7% to INR 2,278 crore from INR 2,240 crore in the corresponding quarter of the previous year.
On a standalone basis, the profit after tax (PAT) surged by 12% year-on-year (YoY) to INR 229 crore in Q4FY24. However, standalone revenue declined to INR 1,637 crore from INR 1,702 crore reported by the company in Q4FY23.
The company succeeded in reducing its expenses to INR 1,894 crore in Q4FY24 from INR 1,970 crore in Q3FY24 and INR 1,907 crore in Q4FY23. This marked a 4% decrease on a quarter-on-quarter (QoQ) basis and a 0.68% decrease year-on-year (YoY).
The consolidated revenue from domestic operations remained unchanged at INR 1,680 crore, compared to the revenue reported in the year-ago period of INR 1,683 crore. Conversely, international revenue increased to INR 598 crore in the reported quarter, up from INR 557 crore reported in the corresponding period of the previous financial year.
In the full financial year, the net profit surged by 16% year-on-year (YoY) to INR 1,502 crore from INR 1,322 crore in FY23. Conversely, revenue experienced an 11.40% year-on-year (YoY) decline in FY24, totaling INR 9,795 crore.
Marico shares concluded at INR 531.85 on the NSE, marking an increase of INR 14.95 or 2.89%.
The Lab-grown Diamonds (LGDs) are anticipated to see a revival in FY25, with exports expected to grow by 7-9% to reach a value of approximately $1500-1530 million, according to CareEdge Advisory.
LGD exports have experienced a recent decline, with a year-on-year decrease of approximately 16.5% in FY24. Despite an increase in sales volume, decreasing prices have adversely affected exports. However, CareEdge Advisory suggests that the depreciating rupee may provide some support to the industry.
Moving forward, the demand for LGD exports is projected to rebound in FY25, as demand for naturally mined diamonds may continue to be sluggish. This trend is linked to factors such as price competitiveness, environmental sustainability, and increased competition from India compared to other prominent LGD-producing countries.
Colin Shah, managing director of Kama Jewelry, remarked on the report, stating, “LGDs have been capturing attention due to their cost-effectiveness and environmentally friendly characteristics. The demand for LGDs in both domestic and international markets had been steadily increasing until FY23. However, the subdued sentiment in FY24 was influenced by various global economic factors such as ongoing geopolitical tensions and price volatility, resulting in an overall decline in exports. Interestingly, countries like Germany, the UK, Italy, and China experienced an export surge during FY24, possibly due to the G7 ban on Russian-origin diamonds.”
Shah mentioned, “Although the downward trend has significantly impacted the general appeal for LGDs, there’s promise for demand revival ahead. This optimism is fueled by a decrease in natural diamond prices driven by weakened purchasing power, laying a favorable foundation for LGD demand to thrive.”
India currently produces over three million lab-grown diamonds annually, contributing to 15% of the global production. It holds the position of the second-largest producer globally, after China. Alongside China and India, other key players in lab-grown diamond production include the U.S., Singapore, and Russia. The Indian market for lab-grown diamond jewellery was valued at US$ 264.5 million in 2022, with an anticipated rise to $300 million in 2023. Despite its growth, the lab-grown diamond industry has encountered challenges, notably a surge in supply leading to a substantial decrease in prices.
However, the India-UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) is poised to enhance the growth of the lab-grown diamond industry. For instance, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, in the Budget 2023-24, announced a reduction in basic customs duty on seeds used in LGD manufacturing from 5% to NIL. This strategic move aims to bolster LGD exports from India amidst dwindling natural diamond reserves. Additionally, the depreciating rupee is expected to provide some support to this export-oriented sector.
High-quality lab-grown diamonds with certified authenticity, manufactured using advanced equipment and precise process parameters, will attract more international consumers, thus revitalizing the export business. Similar to Cut and Polished Diamonds (CPD), the recent decline in LGD prices has resulted in a decrease in India’s LGD exports to key destinations. LGD exports experienced a decline of 16.5%, dropping from US$ 1680.22 million in FY23 to US$ 1402.30 million in FY24.
In FY24, the USA, Hong Kong, and UAE collectively dominated India’s lab-grown diamond exports, representing 90% of the total. From FY16 to FY23, LGD exports witnessed a remarkable ~60% Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR). However, in the transition from FY23 to FY24, there was a significant decline of 16.5% year-on-year.
While exports to most countries experienced a downturn, notable exceptions include Germany, the UK, Italy, and China, which displayed substantial export growth during FY24. This surge in certain markets could be attributed, at least in part, to the G7 ban on Russian-origin diamonds.
The primary factors contributing to the export decline are linked to the reduced prices of lab-grown diamonds, indicating stable volumes but resulting in diminished export value. The average price per carat for LGD stood at US$198.22 for the first ten months of FY24, whereas natural diamonds commanded a significantly higher price of US$4357 per carat during the same period.
QUE, the eyewear brand, has enlisted cricketer Shikhar Dhawan to serve as both an investor and brand ambassador.
Co-Founded by Shashank Saurabh, Abhishek Deep, and Kumar Vagish, QUE is preparing for its launch with the goal of dominating the market with its range of products.
In a statement, the startup emphasized that Dhawan’s partnership with the brand will be instrumental in facilitating a robust launch, boosting marketing endeavors, and improving product offerings.
Dhawan expressed, “With a keen eye for both style and practicality, I’m confident that QUE’s inventive eyewear will strike a chord with discerning consumers who seek high-quality products that align with their lifestyles. I’m eager to endorse QUE and play a part in its prosperity.”
He also emphasized that this collaboration aims to establish groundbreaking norms within the Indian eyewear sector, prioritizing the utmost protection of eyes.
With the goal of democratizing both style and quality, QUE seeks to offer its premium sunglasses to a wide premium audience throughout India and beyond.
Saurabh said, “We’re excited about this strategic investment along with the partnership with Shikhar Dhawan, as it reinforces our mission to redefine the sunglasses industry, projected to reach $8.6 billion by 2028.”
He believes that the startup has the confidence to establish itself as a popular brand.
The Indian cricketer began his investment venture in 2022 by launching a global investment fund aimed at supporting sportstech startups. The fund initially had $75 million in capital, with an additional $25 million available through a greenshoe option.
Furthermore, Dhawan has served as both an angel investor and a brand ambassador for numerous companies. Just last year, he provided undisclosed financial support to the direct-to-consumer food brand TagZ and also signed on as their brand ambassador.
Most recently, Dhawan became an investor and brand ambassador for Shviz, a direct-to-consumer brand specializing in sexual wellness and grooming products.
Tim Hortons, the renowned international coffeehouse and restaurant chain, has inaugurated its premier outlet in Hyderabad, as announced in a social media post by a company representative. Situated at Inorbit Mall, Madhapur, this marks the 30th Tim Hortons establishment in the nation.
“Exciting news! Tim Hortons India is now welcoming guests at Inorbit Mall, Hyderabad. This marks our debut in Hyderabad and our 30th store launched with success across India,” shared Davesh Mehra, Head of Projects – North at Tim Hortons India, in a LinkedIn update.
Mehra further emphasized, “Come experience our aesthetically pleasing store where you can indulge in your beloved French vanilla, iced cappuccino, donuts, and an array of other delicious treats. This milestone signifies a substantial advancement for our organization, marking the beginning of an exhilarating new chapter in our journey.”
The coffee shop is currently open in multiple locations, including Bengaluru, New Delhi, Chandigarh, Pune, Gurugram, Noida, Ludhiana, Shanghai, and Mumbai.
Tim Hortons, a multinational coffeehouse and restaurant chain headquartered in Toronto, was established in 1964 by Canadian hockey players Tim Horton and Jim Charade. Tim Hortons operates globally under Restaurant Brands International Inc., boasting more than 5,100 restaurants spread across 15 countries.
Arvind Ltd, a clothing retailer, saw a 2.1% increase in profit during the fourth quarter, buoyed by consistent demand for its textiles.
The corporation, renowned for retailing international labels such as Tommy Hilfiger, Arrow, and Calvin Klein, reported a surge in consolidated net profit to 990.3 million rupees ($11.9 million), up from 970 million rupees in the preceding year.
Indian retailers are combatting sluggish demand and cautious consumer spending by swiftly rolling out discounted products to entice shoppers.
Nevertheless, they persist in experiencing decelerated volume growth amidst escalating competition.
Arvind recorded a 10.3% surge in revenue from operations, with its core textile segment, comprising almost 72% of total sales, experiencing a 5% growth.
The company reported a rebound in denim sales for the quarter, alongside growth in garment and woven product sales.
Arvind’s advanced materials segment, responsible for producing fabrics and protective gear for construction, saw a growth of approximately 21%.
In its investor presentation, the company stated that with inventory correction completed and new customer onboarding alongside fresh order bookings, the demand outlook appears positive for the financial year 2025.
The retailer announced its intention to increase its capital expenditure to 4-4.50 billion rupees for upcoming projects.
Moreover, it greenlit a dividend of 4.75 rupees per share, inclusive of a one-time special dividend.
Rival Shoppers Stop reported a 53% surge in fourth-quarter profit, buoyed by robust demand in its beauty segment and luxury product offerings.
Trent, owned by Tata Group, experienced a five-fold increase in quarterly profit, attributed to the expansion of its lower-priced Zudio brand stores.
Laneige, a skincare label dedicated to moisture research, has named social media sensation Sara Tendulkar as its brand ambassador for India. Sara’s genuine influence on social platforms resonates with Laneige’s aim to champion natural and sustainable beauty across the nation.
Sara Tendulkar epitomizes Laneige’s principles of embracing individuality and inner beauty, echoing the brand’s conviction that each person deserves to radiate with their own distinct glow. In conjunction with Sara’s ambassadorship, Laneige unveiled its Bouncy and Firm Sleeping Mask, underscoring its dedication to pioneering skincare solutions.
Paul Lee, MD and Country Head of Amorepacific India, expressed Laneige’s delight in welcoming Sara Tendulkar. He said, “Laneige proudly announces Sara Tendulkar as its Brand Ambassador, embracing her vibrant energy. Sara represents the modern, optimistic youth who believe that beauty goes beyond mere appearances. Laneige hopes to reach a larger audience now that Sara has joined the team.”
Mini Sood Banerjee, Assistant Director and Head of Marketing and Training at Amorepacific India, expressed, “As Laneige’s journey progresses, we are excited to embrace Sara Tendulkar into our family as the epitome of timeless grace and modern elegance. Her lively spirit and natural charm seamlessly align with Laneige’s dedication to empowering individuals to embrace their distinct beauty. Together, we embark on a fresh chapter, celebrating authenticity and the transformative potential of skincare.”
Sally Lee, Brand General Manager of Laneige India, expressed, “We are thrilled to introduce Sara Tendulkar as Laneige’s new Brand Ambassador. Sara’s radiant charm and enduring elegance deeply align with our brand’s ethos. Sara’s enhanced involvement in the Laneige journey signifies a significant milestone, forging stronger bonds with an evolving generation of consumers.”
Laneige, celebrated for its mastery in moisture research, provides intelligent skincare solutions catering to diverse skin types. Tailored to combat stress and environmental influences, Laneige products strive to unlock the skin’s innate moisture prowess. The collaboration between Laneige and Sara Tendulkar is primed to revolutionize the skincare landscape in India, offering consumers access to cutting-edge, premium skincare products tailored precisely to their requirements.
We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it.
